‘Survivor: Gabon’ Contestant Dan Kay Dead at 40

Sad news for the Survivor family, as Survivor: Gabon contestant Dan Kay passed away suddenly on New Year’s Eve at the age of 40. Kay, a native of Brookline, New Hampshire, died “unexpectedly”, according to his obituary.

Survivor host Jeff Probst took to Twitter to offer his condolences to Kay’s family, and to share memories of the 11th-place finisher.

Source: Monty Brinton/CBS

I just heard the very sad news about the sudden loss of Dan Kay of Survivor: Gabon. The Survivor family sends our love to Dan's family.

Kay’s obituary read: “He was known for his hard work, dedication, attention to detail and strong work ethic. In his free time, he enjoyed running, skiing, listening to music, and attending Crossway Christian Church. Dan had a smile that could light up a room. His desire to be challenged and his quest for adventure lead to his participation on the reality show, Survivor.”

The obit continued, “More than anything, Dan cherished the time he spent with his two young children, Reese Elizabeth Kay and Jackson ‘Jax’ Russell-Reid Kay. Those who knew Dan best, would agree he was a child at heart. He was known for his hard work, dedication, attention to detail and strong work ethic. In his free time, he enjoyed running, skiing, listening to music, and attending Crossway Christian Church. Dan had a smile that could light up a room.”

Our condolences go out to Kay’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.